Navy sailor sacrificed himself to save 20 lives after the USS Fitzgerald collision

One of the seven sailors who died aboard the USS Fitzgerald saved more than a dozen of his fellow shipmates before he ultimately lost his own life, The Daily Beast reported. The USS Fitzgerald collided with aPhilippine-flagged merchant vessel about 56 miles off the coast of Japan on Saturday.

Seven sailors were later found dead in flooded compartments on the ship.

When the Fitzgerald collided with the merchant ship, 37-year-old Fire Controlman 1st Class Gary Leo Rehm Jr., “leapt into action,” according to The Daily Beast.

The Fitzgerald was struck below the waterline, and Rehm Jr.’s family was told by the Navy that he went under and saved at least 20 sailors, according to WBNS-10TV in Columbus, Ohio.

But when he went back down to get the other six sailors, the ship began to take on too much water, and the hatch was closed, WBNS-10TV said.

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Txazz

RIP Fire Controlman 1st Class Gary Leo Rehm Jr.
So glad that heroic story is making it to the press. Heartbreaking but, certainly awe inspiring and what a legacy for his family. May those 20 sailors never forget why they now have a future. Prayers for his family and fellow sailors.

shooten

Is he eligible for the CMH? This act was deserving of great Honor.

Patrick G

I really feel terribly for the sailors that had to shut the hatch. Truly awful circumstance but I'm sure this Hero understood.